Staffing

Sprinkles promotes exec to COO

Photo: Sprinkles

December 5, 2023

Sprinkles Bakeries and Picnik Restaurants has promoted Justin Murakami to COO, recognizing his contributions in steering operational growth and innovation, said Dan Mesches, president and CEO.

"Justin's strategic foresight and operational expertise have been instrumental in our company's success, especially in expanding Sprinkles' global footprint and Picnik's domestic expansion," he said in a company press release. "We're confident that under Justin's leadership, we'll continue to exceed expectations, scale efficiently, and solidify our position as industry leaders."

Since joining Sprinkles in 2017, Murakami has developed systems and processes to help expand the brand's physical footprint with company-owned and franchised locations, domestically and internationally. He was also responsible for taking the cupcake ATMs beyond its brick-and-mortar locales, launching the non-traditional Cupcake ATM business, according to the release. With over 50 ATMs, Sprinkles ATMs can be found in airports, malls and lifestyle centers across the country. He was also instrumental in the launch of Sprinkles' National Shipping Program, creating another channel for growth.

Before joining Spinkled, he worked for The Cheesecake Factory, Lettuce Entertain You and Hopdoddy Burger Bar.